What size is the drain plug on a Ford F250?
The engine oil drain plug on most Ford F-250 trucks is 14 mm in thread size (14 mm x 1.5) and is removed with a 14 mm socket. However, the exact size can vary by engine and model year, so it’s important to confirm for your specific vehicle.
In this article, we outline the typical size you’re likely to encounter, how to verify the correct plug for your F-250, and what to do if you find a different specification on your vehicle. This guidance helps you avoid cross-threading or leaks during an oil change.
Common oil drain plug sizes for Ford F-250 engines
Here are the sizes you’re most likely to encounter across common F-250 engines. Always verify on your VIN or service manual, as exceptions exist for particular model years or special editions.
- 14 mm x 1.5 threaded engine oil drain plug with a 14 mm hex head (requires a 14 mm socket). This size is standard for most F-250 gas engines (such as 5.4L, 6.8L, 6.2L) and Power Stroke diesels (such as 6.0L, 6.4L, 6.7L) in many generations.
The vast majority of Ford F-250s use this 14x1.5 size, but there can be variations depending on the exact engine family and production year. When in doubt, verify with official documentation or inspect the plug you currently have.
How to verify the exact plug size on your F-250
To ensure you use the correct drain plug size for your specific truck, follow these steps. A quick check can prevent cross-threading and leaks.
- Check the owner's manual or the service manual for the oil pan drain plug specification tailored to your model year and engine.
- Inspect the current drain plug: measure the hex head across flats with a caliper or ruler to confirm if it’s 14 mm, and note the thread diameter. If you have access to a thread gauge, verify the pitch (commonly 1.5 for 14 mm plugs).
- If you’ve removed the plug before, compare the replacement plug you plan to use with the removed one to ensure a match in size and thread pitch.
- Bring the existing plug to an auto parts store if you’re unsure; store staff can help identify the correct size based on the thread and head dimensions.
- Always torque the drain plug to the manufacturer’s specification and replace the washer/gasket as required. If you don’t have the torque spec, consult the service manual or dealer.
By following these steps, you’ll confirm the exact plug size for your F-250 and reduce the risk of damage during an oil change.
Summary
For most Ford F-250 models, the engine oil drain plug is 14 mm in thread size (14x1.5) and uses a 14 mm socket. While this size covers the majority of gasoline and Power Stroke diesel engines, variations can exist by year and engine type. Always verify via the owner's or service manual, or by measuring the plug you have, to ensure a proper fit and a leak-free seal after an oil change.
